Defence Ministry signed a contract with Hindustan Shipyard Ltd

Current Context: The Defence Ministry of India has signed a contract with Hindustan Shipyard Limited (HSL), Visakhapatnam, for the acquisition of five fleet support ships (FSS) for the Indian Navy at a cost of 19,000 crore. The contract was approved by the Cabinet Committee on Security (CCS) on August 16, 2023.

• The FSS are vessels that can replenish the naval ships at sea with fuel, water, ammunition and other supplies, enabling them to operate for longer periods without returning to the harbour.
• The FSS will have a displacement of 44,000 tonnes and will be the first of their kind to be built in India by an Indian shipyard.
• The project will generate employment of nearly 168.8 lakh man-days over a period of eight years and will also boost the indigenous shipbuilding industry and the ‘Make in India’ initiative of the government .
• The FSS will enhance the strategic reach, mobility and blue water capability of the Indian Navy and will significantly strengthen its operational readiness. They are expected to be delivered by HSL between 2026 and 2030.

Question:

Q.1 What is the name of the shipyard that has signed the contract with the Defence Ministry for the acquisition of five FSS?
a. Mazagon Dock Shipbuilders Limited
b. Cochin Shipyard Limited
c. Hindustan Shipyard Limited
d. Goa Shipyard Limited